Oneida Community Silver-Plated Teaspoon (Coronation Pattern, Circa 1936)
Teaspoon / Flatware · None (Silver-plated); the yellow/brownish tint visible is tarnish/sulfidation rather than gold.
Purity: Non-gold (0% gold content); item is an electroplated base metal alloy, likely nickel silver, with a silver surface coating.
Type
Teaspoon / Flatware
Purity
Non-gold (0% gold content); item is an electroplated base metal alloy, likely nickel silver, with a silver surface coating.
Gold Type
None (Silver-plated); the yellow/brownish tint visible is tarnish/sulfidation rather than gold.
Weight
30 - 45 grams (approximate weight for a standard silver-plated teaspoon).
Description
An iconic example of American mid-century flatware, this teaspoon features the 'Coronation' pattern, characterized by pierced floral motifs and horizontal line accents on the handle. While the surface currently shows heavy tarnish that mimics a gold-like hue, it is functionally a silver-plated utility piece intended for middle-class households of the era.
Key Features
Pierced decorative elements near the bowl; 'Community' brand mark; distinctive horizontal banding characteristic of the Coronation pattern.
Color & Finish
Dull grey-silver base with significant yellowish-brown tarnish (oxidation) and a polished but worn finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'COMMUNITY' on the back of the neck; clearly identifies it as a line from Oneida Limited.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: ~6.0 - 6.25 inches; Bowl Width: ~1.25 inches; Standard teaspoon size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a relief-molded floral and scroll pattern on the handle.
Clasp & Closure
N/A; solid piece of flatware with a standard flared handle terminal.
Chain & Links
N/A; solid handle construction with a tapered neck leading to the bowl.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced via industrial stamping and electroplating; high-quality die-work for the floral patterns; consistent thickness and ergonomic balance.
Authentication Indicators
The 'COMMUNITY' stamp is the primary indicator; the specific tarnish pattern (yellow-to-black gradient) is characteristic of silver-plated copper-nickel-zinc alloys, not solid gold or gold plating.
Origin & Maker
USA; Manufactured by Oneida Community Limited.
Era & Period
Art Deco / Mid-Century Transition (The 'Coronation' pattern was introduced in 1936 for George VI).
Age Estimate
Mid-20th Century, likely produced between 1936 and the 1950s.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in American households, where 'Community Plate' allowed families to own elegant dinnerware that looked like sterling silver at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; heavy surface oxidation and tarnish; visible scratches and surface wear; no structural bends; plating appears mostly intact under the tarnish. Grade: Low-mid secondary market condition.
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00 USD; primarily utility/replacements value. Zero precious metal melt value as it contains no gold and negligible silver.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dedicated silver polish or a paste of baking soda and water to remove sulfidation; dry immediately; avoid the dishwasher to prevent 'plate loss' (wearing down to the base metal).
Similar Items
Oneida Morning Star, Oneida Lady Hamilton, or various International Silver Co. plated patterns.
Interesting Facts
The Coronation pattern was Oneida's most successful design of all time, created to commemorate the 1936 coronation of King George VI of Great Britain.